Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scored and Australia spoiled Turkey’s return to the World Cup for the first time in 24 years with a 2-0 victory Saturday night.

Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scored and Australia spoiled Turkey's return to the World Cup for the first time in 24 years with a 2-0 victory on Saturday night. Goalkeeper Patrick Beach made eight saves for the Socceroos in their group opener as FIFA President Gianni Infantino looked on. Australia…

Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scored as Australia beat Turkey 2-0, spoiling the Turks' first World Cup appearance in 24 years.

Socceroos coach Tony Popovic's bold selection gamble paid off after leaving captain Maty Ryan and Jackson Irvine out of his starting XI.

Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe fire Aussies to victory in Vancouver.

Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe fire Aussies to victory in Vancouver.

Indian-origin winger Nishan Velupillay made his FIFA World Cup debut as Australia beat Turkiye 2-0 in their Group D opener. The result gave the Socceroos an early edge in the qualification race and marked another step in Velupillay's rapid rise.